Photography Students Capture Christmas Magic in RSPCA Festive Photoshoot
Two photography students gained invaluable industry experience this December after securing a weekend work placement with the RSPCA, helping to produce the charity’s annual Christmas photoshoot.
Student photographer Ti-Ann was one of the two main photographers trusted with capturing portraits of the animals, and in some cases their owners, posing with Santa. Working alongside a professional photographer gave her a rare insight into the fast-paced environment of an animal-focused event.
“I had the role of being one of two main photographers who got to capture the event and also got the opportunity to shadow a professional photographer,” she explained.
While the technical side of the job felt familiar due to skills gained on her course, the setting introduced new challenges.
“I didn’t learn many new skills since everything I did was very familiar to me, but I did learn how to be more time-sensitive and patient with the animals as I’m not used to shooting in such a busy setting.”
The opportunity came through her lecturer, who shared the placement information with the class. Both Ti-Ann and her classmate volunteered to take part.
“My course helped me by giving us the resources and information we needed for the event, and it gave us the confidence we already had to go and photograph the event,” she said.
Already set on a career in photography, the placement strengthened her understanding of what real-world jobs look like.
“It definitely changed my perspective as things on the day were 50/50—some things didn’t happen or were unexpected while others ran smoothly.”
Fellow student Aurelia also took on the role of photographer during the busy weekend. On Saturday, she and Ti-Ann handled the entire photoshoot themselves; on Sunday, they shadowed a professional to observe how an expert manages the workflow.
“I was responsible for taking images of the event and then ensuring they were edited within a week and sent to the owners,” she said.
The experience pushed her to develop stronger communication and problem-solving skills.
“My communication skills have without a doubt improved as I was put in a situation where I had to work with people I’ve never met before. Both me and my friend ran into a couple of technical problems throughout our placement, but we luckily found ways around it.”
Her college supplied her with the equipment she needed, including cameras, lenses, and a flash, and the course’s broad skill-building enabled her to work independently.
“I’ve gained a plethora of new skills over the past year and a half which I was able to utilise to my fullest, as I didn’t really have a teacher on the placement to guide me—it was more independent.”
The placement also affirmed her ambitions for the future.
“It’s definitely shaped my decision for my future career path as it showed me what working as a photographer really is like, and what shadowing a professional one looks like too.”
Both students came away with a deeper appreciation of the realities of professional photography. Balancing technical demands, client expectations, and the unpredictability of working with animals.
The RSPCA’s festive event not only provided lasting memories for pet owners but offered these emerging photographers a meaningful glimpse into their future careers.
